Florence — The Florence Huskies are 1-2 this season in games where they were challenged to control the line of scrimmage.

At 7 p.m. Friday at Palmer Field, the fifth-ranked Huskies will host the Trinidad Miners and their power running game and stifling defense, and head coach Jeremy Nix said the line of scrimmage will be the biggest key to the game.

Teams that the Huskies have played with similar talent on the line of scrimmage were Kent Denver, Manitou Springs and Lamar.

"They've got that, get your hand in the dirt and get after it mentality," Nix said.

In order to have success on offense, the Huskies need to be able to run the ball like always. Trinidad's defensive line is anchored by Nick Paradiso, with linebacker Eric Lopez right behind him at linebacker.

Florence's top three runners average 300 yards combined per game. Zach Hoxie's 111 leads the team with Johnnie Krien 100 and Lane Masar 98 right behind.

Thomas Bowman is the Miners' main running back. He averages 74 yards per game.

"Time of possession will be key," Nix said. "Who can put some drives together and keep their (defense) off the field."

Florence will make the playoffs no matter what happens tonight, barring a huge, unlikely shift in wild card points. The Huskies currently are seventh and the top 16 make the playoffs. The Miners are 15th and need a win to ensure a spot in the postseason.

A loss could send the Huskies on the road for a first-round game. Nix said more than anything, he wants his players to be crisp as they head into the tournament that starts next week.